My cat is constipated, rubbing bum, and licking. Is it food?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 8 years and 11 months old
My cat has been constipated for a while. She does poo every day but very dry and small pieces. She only likes to eat cat food (at the moment Royal Canine for sensitive stomachs and other for hair balls). However, since yesterday she is rubbing her bum and seems in huge discomfort. Her bum is red and keeps licking it, also she licks her body hair obsessively, I suspect a food allergy? What food should I give her, please?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 30th, 2019
Do not change Rhoda's diet, that typically causes more problems. Food allergies are rare in cats. It could be she has a problem with her anal sacs causing her to rub her bum, but the constipation could be causing that as well. You need to have her seen by a vet for this problem.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 8th, 2019
Usually a "fishy" smell is associated with full anal glands, and may also cause a dog to lick or scoot their bottom if their glands are full. Cats can also get full anal glands and if constipated or having too loose of stool may not be able to fully empty them. If the problem persists and they don't improve, the smell worsens, or there is visible discharge or discomfort, bring them into your vet to have the area checked for any other possible issues, and to have any full anal glands expressed. Your vet can also show you how to do this in case you need to do it again at home in the future.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 8th, 2019
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely due to anal sac issues. For that reason, I recommend that you have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to evaluate that area carefully and proceed with therapy accordingly. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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